Wisconsin and North Carolina voters to decide constitutional amendments

Voters in Wisconsin and North Carolina will face several proposed constitutional amendments on the upcoming November ballot.

In Wisconsin, three yes-or-no questions are proposed that, if passed, would amend the state constitution. One measure seeks to prohibit governmental entities from discriminating or granting preferential treatment based on race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin in public employment, education, contracting, or administration. Supporters, such as the Wisconsin Conservative Coalition, argue the amendment would eliminate racial biases and hiring quotas to level the playing field. Conversely, critics, including the League of Women Voters Wisconsin, express concern that the language is broad enough to impact admissions, scholarships, and student clubs.

In North Carolina, three statewide referendums address income taxes, local property taxes, and voter photo-identification requirements. One proposal aims to cap the state income tax rate at 3.5%, preventing future legislatures from raising it above that threshold. Proponents suggest this will protect individual and business revenue, while opponents argue it could limit the state's ability to generate revenue for future spending needs.